Phalaenopsis Orchid yellow leaves

A single lowest leaf can slowly yellow while the crown remains firm and roots keep growing. Leave it until it releases easily. Several yellow leaves, or yellowing at their attachment to the crown, need closer inspection.

Look through the pot first

Firm roots can be green when wet and silvery when dry; color is less useful than texture for deciding what to cut. Roots that collapse, turn slimy, or lose their outer covering are damaged. Broken-down bark and a wet cover pot can keep roots without enough air.

Check the crown

Water caught between the leaves can contribute to crown rot. Blot collected water and keep the crown above the potting medium. For soft tissue spreading at the leaf bases, separate the orchid, keep the crown dry, and contact a local extension or plant diagnostic service with photos of the crown and roots.